MLS Clubs Seeking Stadiums

By Rick Horrow and Karla Swatek

October 15, 2012

Despite closing in on their first playoff appearance in five years, MLS club DC United is on pace to post their worst attendance total in franchise history. At 13,483 fans per game, DC United ranks 17th among MLS’s 19 teams, and has experienced a 32% drop in attendance since 2008.

Meanwhile, New England Revolution owner Robert Kraft is looking into building a new $100 million stadium for his club. Kraft is considering two sites for the stadium, and he hopes to make a decision within a few months. The club currently plays at Gillette Stadium, home of the Kraft-owned NFL Patriots.

The similarities between DC United and the Revolution are striking. Both teams play in massive, multipurpose stadiums, are struggling with attendance, and have been looking to build a new facility for years. The primary difference between them? The Revolution is much more in control of their stadium process than DC United is.